CSFA, Brandman University Introduce Bachelor's Degree for California Firefighters

SACRAMENTO and IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- California State Firefighters' Association (CSFA) and Brandman University today announced an exclusive relationship to offer a bachelors of arts in applied studies (BAAS) developed specifically for California's firefighting community.  CSFA members who pursue this degree, launching this month, will enjoy a tuition discount valued at approximately $900 per course.

The Brandman degree program, developed over the past year in cooperation with CSFA, California Fire Chiefs Association, Orange County Fire Authority, Santa Ana College and others, will be offered at 23 Brandman University locations throughout the state and online.

"Today's fire service requires the best trained personnel, and CSFA is pleased to partner with Brandman University to offer this fully accredited program to our members throughout the state," said John Dane, executive director of CSFA.

A significant feature of the BAAS is acceptance of students' existing community college and other fire technology units as credit toward the degree, along with the flexibility and efficiency of a year-round schedule.

Founded in 1958 and formerly known as Chapman University College, Brandman University is part of the prestigious Chapman University System and provides high-quality, innovative degree programs for working professionals.  By blending Chapman University's heritage of academic excellence with specialized student services and flexible curriculum delivery, Brandman is a highly regarded option for working professionals and community college transfers seeking meaningful degrees that have a reputation for quality.  The university also provides an affordable private education alternative for students unable to obtain the classes they need to graduate in state university systems and public institutions.

"The partnership with CSFA exemplifies the reason we established Brandman University," said Chancellor Gary Brahm.  "Our mission is to create flexible and targeted programs that benefit the specialized needs of adult students who want to advance their education, but have a variety of other responsibilities.  The BAAS is a great way for California firefighters to obtain a high-quality education while maintaining their work schedules and other commitments."

About CSFA

Founded in 1922, California State Firefighters' Association is California's oldest statewide fire service trade association representing all facets of the California fire service with a variety of benefits and legislative advocacy. For more information visit www.csfa.net.

About Brandman University

Brandman University is a private, non-profit institution accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Established in 1958 and a part of the Chapman University System, Brandman blends a legacy of academic excellence with progressive, innovative curriculum and strong support services designed for working professionals. The university serves more than 10,000 students annually in 200-plus undergraduate and graduate degree, certificate, credential and professional development programs in arts and sciences, business, education and health, both offered online and through 26 campuses in California and Washington.  For more information, visit www.brandman.edu.

About Chapman University

Founded in 1861, Chapman University (www.chapman.edu) is one of California's oldest, most prestigious private universities and is home to more than 4,000 undergraduate students and 1,500 graduate students at its home campus in Orange, California.

SOURCE Brandman University